Here’s a list of ingredients for **Maple Mustard Chicken Thighs** formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help your recipe rank better:
- **Chicken thighs** (bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness)
- **Pure maple syrup** (100% natural for a rich, sweet glaze)
- **Dijon mustard** (smooth and tangy for depth of flavor)
- **Whole grain mustard** (adds texture and a rustic touch)
- **Garlic cloves** (minced for aromatic flavor)
- **Fresh thyme** (or dried thyme for a herby note)
- **Olive oil** (extra virgin for cooking and richness)
- **Apple cider vinegar** (balances sweetness with acidity)
- **Salt** (to enhance all flavors)
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground for a hint of spice)
- **Smoked paprika** (optional, for a smoky undertone)
- **Chicken broth** (low-sodium for added moisture and flavor)
This combination of ingredients creates a **sweet and savory maple mustard glaze** that’s perfect for **easy weeknight dinners** or **impressive meal prep**. Use keywords like **maple mustard chicken recipe**, **juicy chicken thighs**, and **quick dinner ideas** to optimize your content!
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Steps
# How to Make Maple Mustard Chicken Thighs: A Flavorful Recipe Guide
Maple mustard chicken thighs are a delicious, savory-sweet dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines the rich flavors of maple syrup, tangy mustard, and tender chicken thighs for a meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Follow these detailed steps to create a dish that will impress your family and guests.
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## **Ingredients for Maple Mustard Chicken Thighs**
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (use high-quality syrup for best results)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a crispy skin.
### **2. Prepare the Maple Mustard Glaze**
In a small bowl, combine the **maple syrup**, **Dijon mustard**, **whole-grain mustard**, **minced garlic**, **smoked paprika**, **salt**, **pepper**, and **dried thyme**. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated. This glaze will add a sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor to the chicken.
### **3. Season the Chicken Thighs**
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up nicely. Season both sides of the chicken with a pinch of **salt** and **pepper**.
### **4. Sear the Chicken Thighs**
Heat **olive oil** in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for **4-5 minutes** or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the thighs and sear the other side for **2-3 minutes**.
### **5. Add the Glaze**
Reduce the heat to low and brush the maple mustard glaze generously over the chicken thighs. Make sure to coat both sides for maximum flavor.
### **6. Bake the Chicken**
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for **25-30 minutes**, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches **165°F (74°C)**. Baste the chicken with the glaze halfway through cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.
### **7. Rest and Garnish**
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for **5 minutes**. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat. Garnish with **fresh parsley** for a pop of color and freshness.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
Serve the maple mustard chicken thighs with your favorite sides, such as:
- Roasted vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes)
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- A fresh green salad
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## **Why This Recipe Works**
This maple mustard chicken thighs recipe is a crowd-pleaser because it balances **sweet and tangy flavors** with **crispy, juicy chicken**. The combination of **maple syrup** and **mustard** creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Plus, using **bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs** ensures the meat stays moist and flavorful.
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## **SEO-Friendly Tips**
- Use keywords like **maple mustard chicken thighs**, **easy chicken recipe**, and **savory-sweet chicken** throughout your content.
- Include high-quality images of the dish to attract readers.
- Share this recipe on social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram with hashtags like #ChickenRecipe and #WeeknightDinner.
Enjoy this delicious maple mustard chicken thighs recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!